In partnership with the SIU Alumni Association and the Prairie Capital Area Alumni Chapter, the Automotive Technology Department helped promote SIU and the need for higher education funding in downtown Springfield over the weekend. One of the largest street festivals in Springfield is the Route 66 Mother Road Festival. Through support from various alumni, SIU was able to obtain a prime event location in the heart of the festival. SIU Automotive took its Saluki Racing 1966 Chevrolet Nova and car trailer to be the draw of attention. SIU alumni from the surrounding area were invited to come enjoy a cookout and reconnect with SIU. Students, instructors, and guidance counselors from the area high schools and community colleges were also invited to come learn about the many programs offered at SIU. Several Automotive Technology students helped staff the SIU display during the 3-day event.
At the conclusion of the event, in front of a very large assembled crowd, SIU was again the center of attention. On the main stage in front of the Old State Capitol building, the festival’s awards ceremony kicked off with the shows promoters and organizers speaking about what a great University SIU is and how wonderful it is to see how we engage with our students and community. They were so excited, they have already invited SIU back for next year.